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The COVID-19 pandemic forces us to take more months of social distancing and limiting contacts. We have another Christmas without hugs and heartfelt gestures. Psychiatrists warn that this has a negative effect on our psyche and more and more often talk about the phenomenon known as “skin hunger”.
According to specialists, new forms of family and friendship contacts, which have been forced by the current situation, have negative consequences for the mental condition. They cause a phenomenon they describe as “hunger for the skin” or for touch. Experts point out that it increases with the following months of the obligation to distance and recommendations to avoid gestures of closeness, especially with people with whom you do not live.
– Physical contact is reassuring because it is the oldest way to feel safe. It causes positive neurochemical changes such as the production of oxytocin, an attachment hormone that has a soothing effect, explained Massimo di Giannatonio and Enrico Zanalda from the Italian Society of Psychiatry. Experts analyzed the psychological effects of the pandemic and lockdown.
COVID-19. How to deal with the problem of “skin hunger”?
The world is beginning to document this phenomenon scientifically from the point of view of the impact of the lack of daily physical contact (starting with hugs) on mental well-being, sleep disturbances and fatigue.
Italian psychiatrists point out that while social restrictions are still in force, customary gestures and real presence will not be replaced by video calls or any form of online communication.
In the current phase, there are also suggestions on how to deal with the problem of “skin hunger”. Advice is a hot bath for relaxation, as well as touching soft and comfortable fabrics such as silk or foot massage.
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